52 Hertz

52 Hertz is the story of the loneliest whale in the world, and 5 interconnected people experiencing loneliness and isolation.

It was inspired by the true story of 52 Blue, called the loneliest whale in the world, because he calls out at an abnormal frequency of 52 Hertz, and therefore goes unheard by others of his species. 

Sensitively and beautifully designed and directed by writer Terence Smith, the show uses beautiful coloured blocks as its main set pieces. Movement is wonderfully co-ordinated and the ensemble work is seamless.

We meet Maddie (a very moving performance by Bianca Roose, whose brother Tim (a very likeable Declan Brown) is on a boat searching for the elusive lonely whale. Tim is lonely and frustrated and concerned that Maddie will not answer his message. Asha (a dynamic Shanae Tuxford) is lonely and would like a girlfriend. She would very much like to connect further with Maddie, whom she has met in a bar, she becomes increasingly hurt by Maddie’s apparent refusal to respond. Tamara (lovely depth from Anna Lindstedt) is lonely after the loss of her partner and desperately seeks a lost parcel, while Damon (a gorgeously awkward Daniel Elsegood) wonders why ‘nice’ Maddie isn’t turning up for work.

An interesting exploration of the isolation of the digital age, 52 Hertz was a fascinating story, beautifully acted and realised.

Kimberley Shaw

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